Man Seeks Help as Mother’s Home Remains Unrepaired After Crash
A man is appealing for assistance on behalf of his 80-year-old mother, who has been unable to return to her home for several months following a car collision shortly before Christmas.
Thomas Kyle explained that his mother, Margaret, has been staying with a friend while repairs are underway, as her house was declared unsafe to occupy.
He noted that her health has deteriorated during this period, and he has received emotional phone calls from her pleading to be allowed back into her County Antrim residence.
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (HE) stated that repairs cannot commence until a gas box located at the front of the property is removed by another service provider. However, Firmus Energy indicated they are awaiting authorization from the HE to proceed.
Speaking on the Stephen Nolan Show on Thursday, Thomas said he has requested weekly updates from the HE since the incident at the Cullybackey house on 19 December, but has been repeatedly told the matter is "out of their hands."
"This has been going on far too long now. I'm worried my mum is never going to get home,"
"It's very upsetting for me to have my 80-year-old mother ringing me crying and begging for help to get into her own home.
"And I've tried everything but I'm banging my head against a brick wall I don't know what to do."
Decline in Mother's Health
Thomas shared that his mother suffered a stroke over 30 years ago, which required her to relearn reading and walking skills.
Approximately two years ago, she experienced another stroke resulting in mobility challenges.
"But she got on and she's still very independent. She has to go to the doctor two-three times a week,"he said.
"The doctor is just down the road from where she lives and she's stubborn. Even though she has bad mobility she still manages to walk to the doctors on her own.
"But since this has happened I can see a big decline in my mother."
The HE, which owns the property, stated it had offered temporary accommodation to Margaret, but Thomas described it as unsuitable.
Calls for Resolution
A spokesperson for the HE confirmed that a contractor is ready to carry out repairs, which they estimate will take approximately two weeks.
However, they emphasized that work cannot begin until the gas box is removed, a task they attribute to Firmus Energy.
"We await confirmation on when this work will be undertaken and completed,"the HE said.
"We fully understand their frustration that they cannot yet move back into their home."
Firmus Energy’s spokesperson stated they are waiting for authorization from the HE to start the removal.
"At which point we will instruct the network operator to carry out the work as a matter of urgency,"they added.
Thomas urged both parties to resolve the issue promptly.
"If you had an 80-year-old mother you'd be doing everything in your power to get her back into her own home,"
"Please sort my mother's house out."
